Shelter House
Where Contemporary Design Meets the Wild Oregon Coast
Photography by Lincoln Barbour & JHL Design
Text by JHL, Kari Lubitz and Annika Bielig-Bussmann
Perched on the rugged cliffs of Arch Cape, Oregon, Shelter House invites design enthusiasts and architectural travelers into a space where modernity meets untamed nature.
This 2,500-square-foot coastal retreat, crafted by residential designer David Horning and interior designer Holly Freres for Michael and Kari Lubitz, reimagines the beach house as a seamless extension of its striking surroundings.
The architecture commands attention while harmonizing with the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Its butterfly roof echoes the dramatic contours of the Northern Oregon Coast Range, blending effortlessly with the rugged terrain while addressing practical needs such as directing heavy coastal rains and creating sheltered outdoor areas.
The narrow lot and stringent height restrictions became inspirations rather than limitations, shaping a home that exudes both elegance and ingenuity. The design process, enriched by collaboration with JHL Design, turned challenges into a celebration of form and function.
The essence of Shelter House is its intimate connection to the elements. The home invites the drama of coastal weather inside, with expansive glass walls that frame views of the ever-changing ocean. A double-sided fireplace anchors the living spaces, offering warmth and ambiance even during winter storms.
Externally, western red cedar clads the house, a nod to sustainability and durability. Over time, the wood’s natural patina will further meld the home with the hues of the sky and sea.
Inside Shelter House, simplicity reigns, allowing the artistry of the natural surroundings and curated decor to shine. The neutral palette, chosen for its resilience and timeless appeal, harmonizes with the coastal setting. Every piece of furniture and artwork tells a story, collected by Kari Lubitz from destinations around the globe.
Among the treasures are a Delval nude from a Paris flea market, a triptych by Australian artist David Stacey and Navajo artifacts sourced from the American Southwest.
"Art drives the color story here," Kari explains. "Each piece enriches the space, making it more than just a house—it’s a living gallery."
The indoor-outdoor flow is seamless, with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors dissolving boundaries between interior spaces and the ocean breeze. In the main bedroom, guests awaken to the rhythmic sound of waves and views of the sun rising over the Pacific.
For travelers seeking an unparalleled design experience, Shelter House opens its doors as a luxury rental. Here, guests can immerse themselves in the coastal lifestyle, from storm-watching by the fireplace to sunlit mornings on the expansive deck.
"We want every guest to leave with a renewed appreciation for the natural world. This is a place where design and nature coexist, creating moments of peace and inspiration."
Shelter House is also a catalyst for architectural inspiration along the Oregon Coast. The property’s design sensibilities have influenced neighboring projects, including the Arch Cape Lofts, contributing to a growing legacy of thoughtful, modern coastal architecture.
Whether you’re an architecture aficionado or a traveler drawn to unique design destinations, Shelter House offers a rare opportunity: a stay that inspires awe, fosters tranquility and celebrates the timeless dialogue between structure and setting.